From Split: Blue Cave & 5 Islands amazing speedboat tour

Thinking about soaking up the best of Croatia’s Dalmatian coast in one day? This Blue Cave & 5 Islands speedboat tour promises a full day packed with impressive sights, crystal-clear waters, and lively island atmospheres. This isn’t your average boat trip—it’s a carefully curated experience that gets you close to the natural wonders and historic charm of the region. And with a solid 4.9 out of 5 from 12 reviews, it’s clear that most travelers walk away quite pleased.

What really draws attention here are the standout highlights—like the glowing waters of the Blue Cave, swimming in the peaceful Budikovac Lagoon, and snapping photos of Stiniva’s dramatic cliffs. We also love the flexibility the tour offers to explore several islands without feeling rushed. One thing to consider, though: the price of the Blue Cave tickets isn’t included in the base cost, so you’ll need to stash some cash for that extra experience. This trip is ideal for those who want a comprehensive, fun-filled day on the water, especially if they’re excited about natural beauty and island charm.

Key Points

• Comfortable speedboat ride with a friendly captain and safety gear
• Visit multiple islands and attractions in one day
• Blue Cave’s luminescent waters are a major highlight
• Swim and snorkel in clear, warm waters at Budikovac Lagoon
• Explore historic Hvar with its lively streets and charming cafes
• Expect some extra costs for Blue Cave tickets and plan accordingly

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Introduction to the Tour

If you’re looking for a well-organized day that covers some of the most stunning sights along Croatia’s Dalmatian coast, this full-day speedboat tour from Split is a good bet. It’s designed for travelers who want to maximize their time, packing in visits to the Blue Cave, several islands, and the historic city of Hvar—all in a single day.

We loved the way this trip combines nature, history, and lively island scenes. The boat is described as very comfortable, allowing you to lounge and enjoy the ride, while the knowledgeable guides help you make the most of each stop. The tour hits some high points, notably the luminescent Blue Cave and the stunning beaches and cliffs of Stiniva.

One thing to note: the Blue Cave tickets aren’t included in the price—you’ll need to pay around €18-€24 per adult depending on the season. This extra expense is worth it, in our opinion, because the cave’s glowing waters are unlike anything else you’ll see in Croatia.

This tour is best suited for active travelers who want variety—beaches, caves, historic towns—and don’t mind a busy, full-day itinerary. It’s not ideal for very young children or those with mobility issues, given the boat ride and walking involved, but for most others, it offers a balanced mix of relaxing moments and adventure.

What to Expect on the Day

The Itinerary Breakdown

Your day starts at the Split meeting point, specifically at the “Split” sign at the Riva parking entrance. From there, the speedboat whisks you away on a lively ride across the Adriatic. The first major stop is the Blue Cave—arguably one of the trip’s biggest draws. The cave’s shimmering, glowing blue waters are a natural wonder that everyone seems to gush about. Just remember, tickets are paid separately—costing around €18 for adults in high season—and you’ll want to bring cash for that.

We loved the way the guides manage the timing here. As noted in reviews, “Kata, our hostess, went ahead to manage the booking, which helped save time,” making the experience seamless. If the Blue Cave is closed because of weather, the skipper will reroute you, possibly visiting other less-crowded spots, which can turn out to be a positive.

Island Stops and Highlights

Next, the boat cruises to the Pakleni Islands, a series of tiny islets with inviting beaches and lively spots for a quick swim or photo ops. The luminescent waters of the Blue Lagoon at Budikovac Lagoon are perfect for a swim and snorkeling, which many travelers rate as a highlight. The waters are described as warm and crystal-clear—ideal for floating around and snapping photos of the vibrant underwater scenery.

Another stop is Stiniva Beach, famous for its towering cliffs and hidden, secluded feel. From the reviews, we gather that the views of cliffs and beaches are breathtaking. “The island cliffs and beaches will leave you breathless,” and that’s no exaggeration.

The latter part of the day is spent in Hvar, arguably Croatia’s most glamorous city. You’ll have time to walk through its streets, enjoy the relaxed Mediterranean vibe, and soak in some history and vibrant local life. It’s a perfect way to end the trip, especially if you’re into exploring old towns and enjoying some local hospitality.

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Practical Advice

• Timing and weather: The skipper might change the order of the stops depending on weather conditions—always good to be flexible.
• What to bring: Sun hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, water shoes—these are essentials for comfort and safety.
• Extras: Remember, the Blue Cave ticket isn’t included in the tour price—budget accordingly.
• Group size: The reviews mention comfortable boats and attentive guides, which suggest a manageable group size for a more personal experience.

The Experience We Can Expect

Based on traveler reviews, most people found the trip to be well-organized and very enjoyable. “Everything promised was included,” said Emil, highlighting the transparent nature of the tour. The boat itself gets high praise for comfort, making the long day more pleasant and less tiring.

The guides seem to be a key part of the experience—helpful, friendly, and knowledgeable. “The guides helped us with everything,” said one reviewer, which makes a big difference when you’re navigating multiple stops and tickets.

The Blue Cave stands out as a highlight, with many travelers describing it as “very special” and “beautiful.” It’s a short but impactful visit that captures the magic of Croatia’s coastline. The rest of the day, with swimming, sightseeing, and exploring Hvar, offers a balance of relaxation and activity.

Some reviews pointed out that the crowds at the Blue Cave can be intense, especially during high season, but the guides do their best to find less crowded spots elsewhere when needed.

Value for Money

At $128 per person, this tour offers a full day of diverse experiences. When you factor in the guided tour, safety equipment, snorkeling gear, and visits to multiple islands, it’s a solid value, provided you’re okay with paying extra for the Blue Cave tickets. Many reviews affirm that “what was promised was included,” underscoring the transparent and reliable nature of the tour.

Who This Tour Is Perfect For

This speedboat adventure suits travelers who want to see as much as possible and are comfortable with a lively, full-day outing. It’s great for those who love natural sights like caves and beaches, as well as exploring charming towns. If you’re into memorable photo opportunities and enjoy swimming in warm waters, this trip hits the mark.

It’s not the best choice for very young children, pregnant women, or those with significant mobility issues, given the boat ride and walking involved. But for most active, curious travelers eager to explore Croatia’s stunning islands in a single day, it’s a pretty solid option.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is the Blue Cave ticket included in the tour price?
No, the Blue Cave ticket is paid separately—about €18 for adults in high season—and you should bring cash for it. The tour guides will help you organize this.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring a sun hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and water shoes for comfort during swimming and walking around the islands.

How early do I need to arrive?
You meet at the “Split” sign at the Riva parking entrance, but the specific time isn’t stated. It’s best to arrive a little early to ensure a smooth start.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your plans change.

Is food or drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so you might want to bring snacks or plan to buy something at Hvar or other stops.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s generally not recommended for children under 5, mainly because of the boat ride and the active nature of the trip.

How long is the tour?
It’s a full day, with the activity starting at the meeting point and ending back there, but specific start and end times aren’t given. Expect a long, but well-paced, day.

What is the group size?
While not explicitly stated, reviews mention comfortable boats and attentive guides, indicating manageable group sizes for a more personal experience.

Are the guides multilingual?
The tour offers English and Croatian, making it accessible for international travelers.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a well-rounded adventure along Croatia’s stunning coast, this speedboat tour from Split offers a fantastic mix of natural wonders, beach time, and city exploration. You’ll get to visit the famous Blue Cave with its magical waters, enjoy swimming in clear lagoons, and stroll through charming Hvar.

The trip is best suited for travelers who appreciate comfort, enjoy a fast-paced itinerary, and want to see multiple sights without the hassle of organizing separate tours. The reviews suggest that the guides really know their stuff, making the day smooth and memorable.

While the extra cost for Blue Cave tickets is something to keep in mind, most find it worth the expense for such a unique experience. Be prepared for a lively, fun-filled day and come with a sense of adventure! This tour packs a lot of Croatia’s best into one unforgettable trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: